Top 11 Colorado Campgrounds for Your Campervan Road Trip

A campervan road trip through Colorado is the best thing there is, with the high peaks of the Rocky Mountains, vast open areas, and the opportunity to see some fascinating small towns. Colorado has something for every kind of road tripper, regardless of whether your notion of camping paradise is parking up in a rough, off-the-grid spot or a family-friendly resort stocked with contemporary amenities.

However, things get a little more difficult when it comes to selecting the best campgrounds in Colorado, especially when there are so many possibilities. So, we’ve done the research for you. The best 11 campsites in Colorado are listed below, along with details on their facilities and nearby activities, so you can start planning your next RV trip.

Are you ready? Let’s hit the road and see what’s out there!

Redstone Campground, Carbondale

About 15 miles south of Carbondale, in the scenic Crystal River Valley, Redstone Campground is surrounded by the breathtaking red sandstone cliffs that give the area its name and is a great option if you’re looking for a serene, picturesque campground that’s still close to the action.

There is a total of 37 campsites here, and these are are equipped for campervans and RVs up to 40 feet long. Each also comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and easy access to vault toilets, but you do need to be aware that only 19 sites have electrical hookups, so you’ll need to be prepared for a more off-the-grid experience. Don’t let this put you off, though – the beauty of the area more than makes up for the lack of amenities, and there’s potable water on-site, so you won’t need to worry about bringing your own.

As this site is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, you’ll need to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially if you want to visit during the summer when it gets busy. Keep in mind, also, that camping is limited to 14 consecutive days, but that’s usually plenty of time to explore the area as part of a slow-paced adventure.

And opportunities for exploration is exactly what you’ll find here! A short drive will take you to the Avalanche Creek Trail, a moderate 4-mile hike that takes you through forested areas packed with wildlife to spot. Or, if you feel like taking a cultural experience, head to the historic Redstone Castle, where you can take a tour and learn about the area’s fascinating mining history.

Mountainside RV Park, Somerset

If you’ve been looking forward to enjoying a camping trip in a quiet location, Mountainside RV Park is definitely a campground to consider. Conveniently based between Crested Butte and Gunnison, you’ll be treated to spectacular mountain views, a peaceful atmosphere, and still have access to some creature comforts.

These include full hookups for water, electricity, and sewer, along with WiFI, hot showers, and flush toilets. You’ll also find an on-site store with a propane refill station that sells ice, firewood, and all of your essential camping supplies.

One of the reasons why Mountainside RV Park is so peaceful is because there are only 20 spaces here, creating a cozy, intimate campsite. However, with such a small number of sites available, reservations are highly recommended, especially during the summer months and fall when the park fills up with people eager to see the leaves turning golden!

Along with its quiet atmosphere, another great thing about camping at Mountainside is that you’re not far from some incredible outdoor activities. The West Elk Wilderness is very close, with hiking trails that range from easy nature walks to challenging summit treks. You’ll also be near the Gunnison River, where you can spend a day fishing or rafting, and nearby Crested Butte is the ideal place for mountain biking.

Lost Man Campground, Aspen

Aspen is synonymous with skiing and luxury, but just outside the city, you’ll find a much more down-to-earth experience at Lost Man Campground. Situated along Independence Pass, this campground gives you unparalleled access to high alpine hiking tracks, some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Colorado, and a peaceful experience with just ten sites on offer.

Campervans and small RVs are welcome here, but keep in mind there are no hookups, so things are a little more primitive. It is ideal if you’re looking to disconnect, though, and there are some basic amenities like vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits, but you’ll need to bring your own drinking water.

It’s also important to note that Lost Man Campground is a first-come-first-served site, which basically means you can’t make any reservations, and instead, will have to arrive as early as possible if you’re hoping to snag a spot here. With this in mind, we recommend having an alternative site noted down, just in case you aren’t able to get in here.

If, however, you are lucky enough to grab a space at Lost Man, you’ll be camping in a location that is named after its close proximity to the Lost Man Loop Trail – a 9.8-mile trek that provides you with spectacular views of alpine lakes, mountains, and wildflower meadows. Or, if you fancy a cultural day trip, a 30-minute drive will take you to the John Denver Sanctuary, a nature preserve where you can learn more about the life and music of the famous singer and environmentalist.

Estes Park Campground at Marys Lake

Just outside the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, you’ll find Estes Park Campground at Marys Lake. This is one of the larger RV sites on our list, with 120 spaces in total, including full hookup sites and cabins, making it a great choice if you want to spend your days exploring nature but prefer your creature comforts at night.

You’ll also find WiFi, laundry facilities, hot showers, flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, a general store, and a swimming pool here, which doesn’t only mean you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay but also makes it a very good choice if you’re vacationing with your family.

As you can imagine from a site with so many fantastic amenities to offer, spaces here fill up pretty quickly, so reservations are highly recommended. Just keep in mind that there’s a 14-day limit, but that should give you enough time to explore the local area.

As you’re so close to Rocky Mountain National Park, you’re just a short drive away from some of the best hiking trails in the state. Bear Lake and Alberta Falls are two must-see spots, or for a more challenging hike, check out the Chasm Lake Trail. You’re also close to downtown Estes Park, where you can explore the shops and galleries and even stop by the famous Stanley Hotel (the setting for Stephen King’s “The Shining”) for a ghost tour!

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, Estes Park

For families traveling with kids, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park is an absolute blast. Not only does this campground offer beautiful views and super-convenient amenities, but it’s also packed with activities that are guaranteed to keep your little ones entertained throughout your stay.

Focusing on the amenities first, this park has everything a family could need, from full RV hookups to laundry facilities and a camp store with all the essentials. But what really makes Yogi Bear’s Jellystone so special are the activities! There’s a swimming pool, mini-golf, and a jumping pillow, and Yogi Bear himself even makes regular appearances throughout the week. And, for families who need to stay connected to the virtual world during their trip, there’s WiFi access across the park.

You’ll need to reserve your spot ahead of time at Jellystone, and it’s worth doing this as early as possible because (as you can probably imagine) this is a super-popular destination for families.

Now, while Jellystone has plenty to keep you busy within its gates, you might find that you want to venture out a little further. In this instance, you can try horseback riding at Sombrero Ranches or take in the scenic mountain views along the Peak to Peak Byway. Whatever you decide to do, you’re guaranteed a good time here.

Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Holiday, Estes Park

If your the kind of camper who prefers the convenience offered by KOA campgrounds, the Estes Park/Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Holiday is a fantastic spot to set up camp for a few nights. It’s also located close to the Rocky Mountain National Park entrance., giving you easy access to all the amazing outdoor adventure the area is known for.

There are excellent facilities here, as you’d expect from KOA Campgrounds, and you’ll find full hookups, free WiFi, a laundry room, hot showers, a playground, a communal fire pit, and a bike rental shop that is perfect for exploring your surroundings. It’s also pet friendly here, and there are designated dog exercise grounds where your furry friend can explore in their own way!

As is the case with most KOA sites, reservations here are highly recommended and spaces tend to fill up quickly during the summer months, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot. It’s also important to note that quiet hours apply here from 10 pm to 8 am, so you’ll need to keep the noise down if you want to spend the night stargazing.

Once you’re settled in, start your adventure by heading straight to Rocky Mountain National Park, where you’ll have access to some amazing hiking trails that cater to different skill levels. The Deer Mountain Trail is particularly popular and offers you great views of the area, and the drive up Trail Ridge Road makes it possible to see some incredible views from your campervan. You’re also just a short drive away from downtown Estes Park, where you can grab a bite to eat or spend an afternoon exploring the local shops.

Colorado Springs KOA Holiday, Fountain

Heading to southern Colorado? The Colorado Springs KOA Holiday is another excellent KOA Campground located close to some major attractions and complete with the same fantastic amenities you would expect from a KOA.

These include full RV hookups, bathrooms, showers, and a laundry room. As if that wasn’t enough to ensure your stay is comfortable, you’ll also find a communal kitchen, heated swimming pool, hot tub, and splash pad! It’s pet friendly, too, so you can bring your dog along for your adventure – just keep them on a leash while you’re exploring the park.

After you’ve exhausted all of the fun amenities on offer here and feel like getting out of the park, we recommend jumping in your vehicle and heading straight to the Garden of the Gods where you can enjoy some easy hikes through stunning rock formations. If you prefer more of a challenging hike, take the Barr Trail to the Pikes Peak or trek to the Manitou Springs Cliff Dwelling and Seven Falls for even more natural beauty.

Fountain Creek RV Park, Colorado Springs

If you want the best of both worlds (easy access to city attractions and the beauty of nature), Fountain Creek RV Park nails it. This campsite is right near downtown Colorado Springs, so if you’re itching to check out the city’s shops or grab something to eat, you’re not far at all. But when you’re hanging out at the campground, you’ll still feel like you’re in the heart of the mountains.

You’ll have full hookups for your RV or campervan here, along with restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, cable TV, and free WiFi, which can feel like a luxury if you’ve spent a few days previously in some more remote spots. The views of Pikes Peaks from the campground are worth mentioning, too, and they are particularly beautiful at sunset as you kick back with a cool drink after a day of exploring.

The campground has a maximum stay of 14-days, which is perfect if you want to take an extended road trip, but reservations are needed. This is especially true during the summer when hiking enthusiasts from all over the country head here for the incredible trails and during fall when the surrounding foliage turns amazing shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Like Colorado Springs KOA, Fountain RV Park is close to the Garden of the Gods where there are lots of opportunities for hiking and rock climbing. And if you’re looking for a longer hike, you can head up Pikes Peak (which you’ve undoubtedly been admiring from your campervan) or explore the trails in North Cheyenne Canon Park.

Mountaindale RV Resort, Colorado Springs

Mountaindale RV Resort (just south of Colorado Springs) is the place to head if you’ve been longing for a serene escape but can’t survive without the comfort of modern amenities.

You’ve got full hookups for your campervan here, and even better, the sites are spacious and well-shaded, so you don’t feel like you’re packed in right next to your neighbors. There’s WiFi if you need to stay connected, a laundry facility to keep things fresh, and even a dog park for your furry friends to stretch their legs.

The entire campground has a pretty laid-back vibe but there’s room for some community spirit, with an outdoor pavilion, picnic areas, and a rec room when you can kick back with your fellow campers after a day of exploring. There’s even a pond and creek running right through the campgrounds, adding to the peaceful ambiance and offering a place to dip your toes on a hot day.

As far as location goes, you’re close enough to enjoy all the main attractions in Colorado Springs but still far enough from the hustle and bustle to feel like you’ve truly escaped. Both the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak are a short drive away, and you’re also near North Cheyenne Canon Park, where the hiking trails lead to waterfalls, canyons, and incredible mountain views.

Tiger Run Resort RV Park, Breckenridge

Are you looking to combine the natural beauty of Colorado with some resort-style comfort? Tiger Run Resort in Breckenridge is where you want to be. This place feels more like a mountain retreat than your typical campground, and you’ll find plenty of amenities that will make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Full hookups are available for your campervan, along with showers, a laundry room, and access to WiFi, so you won’t feel too disconnected from the world (unless you want to be, of course). Tiger Run also steps things up a gear with an indoor pool, hot tub, and even a fitness center, which is great if you’re traveling with the whole family or just want some creature comforts.

You can also take advantage of the on-site clubhouse, where you can hang out, play games, or watch TV after a long day outdoors. Basically, this place is a little slice of luxury right in the middle of the mountains!

Another great thing about Tiger Run is that it is open all year round and it also has plenty do enjoy in the surrounding area, no matter what month you’re visiting. In the winter, you can take the short drive to Breckenridge Ski Resort, where you can ski, snowboard, or just enjoy the lively apres-ski scene. During the summer, the area is a playground for hikers and bikers, with the Boreas Pass Road treating you to spectacular views, wildflower meadows, and crisp mountain air.

Boreas Pass Road Designated Dispersed Camping, Breckinridge

If you’re more into off-the-grid camping and want to wake up to a view of the Continental Divide, then Boreas Pass Camping is the perfect choice. This is one of the area’s dispersed camping sites, and this means there are no hookups, no restrooms, and definitely no WiFi! But if you’re okay with roughing it a little, the payoff is incredible.

As with all dispersed camping sites, there are no reservations or fees here. Simply roll up, pick a spot, and enjoy the peace and quiet. Keep in mind, however, that spaces here are first-come-first-served, so it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially in the summer when more people are out looking for prime camping spots!

There are some restrictions that you need to know about before deciding this is the right site for you, though. Firstly, Boreas Pass Road is closed during the winter, so if you’re thinking of taking a road trip from November through March, this isn’t the place to go. Second, camping is only allowed in the designated campgrounds (which are signposted), and camping outside of these areas could result in a citation from the U.S. Forest Service.

As long as you follow these rules, you’ll have no issues dispersed camping here. You’ll also have easy access to the Baker’s Tank Trail, which offers a moderate hike through beautiful forests and meadows. Not to mention, the road itself is a destination, with panoramic views of the mountains and wildflowers all summer long.

Safety Tips for Colorado Campgrounds

Camping in Colorado is an unforgettable experience, but the state’s wild beauty comes with some risks and even if you’re staying at a very well-equipped RV resort, there are still some safety measures you need to keep in mind to make your trip both fun and stress-free.

Check the Weather

Colorado’s weather is famously unpredictable, especially in the mountains. It can be sunny one minute and stormy the next, with temperatures dropping quickly at higher elevations. So, always make sure you check the forecast before you head out and be prepared for sudden changes.

This means packing extra layers and waterproof gear, and being cautious of lightning if you’re hiking or camping above the tree line – Colorado is notorious for afternoon thunderstorms, especially in the summer.

Stay Hydrated & Be Aware of Altitude Sickness

Many Colorado campgrounds sit at high elevations, which can be tough on your body if you’re not used to it and altitude sickness is real concern (particularly if you’re camping above 8,000 feet).

Make sure you drink plenty of water if you’re feeling the symptoms of altitude sickness, which include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath, and avoid overexertion. This is particularly true in the first few days of your trip while your body is still aclamatising to new heights.

Follow Fire Regulations

The dry climate during Colorado’s summers can make wildfires a real possibility and, as such, as very real danger. Always check the current fire regulations at your campground, as restrictions vary between seasons and locations, and some areas may have complete fire bans, while others allow campfires in designated fire pits.

Also, if you are allowed to make a campfire, you should never leave it unattended, and you should make sure that it is fully extinguished before calling it a night. It’s a good idea to keep a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher close to hand, too.

Bear Safety

Black bears call Colorado home, and even in more populated campgrounds, they can be curious visitors! Make sure you store all food, trash, and scented items (like toothpaste and deodorant) in a bear-proof container, even if it’s inside your campervan.

Some campgrounds provide bear lockers, so be sure to use them if they do. Likewise, if you’re in an area where bears are common, familiarize yourself with what to do in case of an encounter.

Leave No Trace

The Leave No Trace principles are key to preserving the beautiful environment in Colorado, so make sure you follow them. This means packing out all of your trash, not disturbing wildlife, and minimizing your impact on the landscape while you’re camping.

This is especially important if you’re dispersed camping, as RV resorts usually have facilities you can use, such as trash cans. A couple of good rules to follow when you’re dispersed camping is to camp at least 200 feet away from water sources to protect the fragile ecosystems, and avoid creating new fire rings – use existing ones where possible.

Know Your Wildlife

Besides bears, Colorado is home to plenty of other wildlife that you might encounter during your trip, and mountain lions, elk, and moose are just a few of the animals you may come across.

Always give wildlife plenty of space and observe from a distance, and never feed wild animals, as it can disrupt their natural behaviors and create dangerous situations for both animals and campers. Likewise, if you’re camping with dogs, keep them leashed and under control to avoid confrontations with widllife.

Stay on Marked Trails

It’s all too easy to get caught up in the scenery when you’re exploring Colorado’s endless hiking trails. But wandering off-path can damage the environment and increase your chances of getting lost.

Make sure you stick to designated trails, especially in remote areas, and carry a map or GPS device with you at all times. Cell service can be spotty in many parts of the state, so it’s smart to have a backup plan in case your phone’s GPS stops working.

Final Thoughts

From rugged backcountry campsites to full-service RV resorts, Colorado has an amazing range of campgrounds to suit every type of campervan road trip, each of which has so many outdoor activities nearby that you’ll never run out of places to explore!

At Travellers Autobarn, we believe that no road trip should be locked to one destination. That’s why we provide campervan rentals with unlimited miles, so you can travel as far as your heart desires without worrying about extra charges. Your journey doesn’t have to end in Colorado, either! Take a look at some of the best campgrounds in the USA and extend your road trip into other states for a truly memorable vacation.